Titus Makin currently stars as Jackson West on the hit ABC series The Rookie. Starring alongside Nathan Fillion in the drama series focusing on the lives of rookie LAPD officers, Titus can be seen captivating audiences in new episodes throughout the second season.

We recently had the chance to speak with Titus Makin about the new episodes currently airing on ABC, what viewers can expect from the remainder of season 2, and expressing himself through music.

Read on for our exclusive interview with Titus Makin below:

Being a multi-talented performer, what would you say initially motivated you to pursue acting as a career? Was there anyone who influenced or inspired you?

Yes, my sister was originally the only actor of the family. I was the dancer/singer. After seeing her perform in multiple plays and watching The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, I was quickly inspired to give it a go myself. I saw the movie Step Up and realized that there were schools where you could act, sing, and dance. So, I looked up one online, auditioned for it, and ended up getting accepted.

Can you tell us a little about your role on The Rookie and what viewers can expect from him as a character?

I play rookie officer Jackson West, the son of the commander of internal affairs. Jackson had a struggling start after the Academy but has now grown and is able to stand on his own two feet. He’s been through the ringer of trying to constantly prove that he deserves to have his job and it wasn’t handed to him because of his father.

Did you do anything special to prepare for your role? Would you say you and Jackson are alike at all?

We all have the opportunity of having a speed academy training at the beginning of each season. We are constantly refining our skills on set as we have a tech advisor (Chic Daniels) with us on the daily. I personally don’t think Jackson and I are very similar. He’s a little more worried about confrontation and speaking his mind than I am. And I personally have learned that I do not have what it takes to be a cop in real life. It is one of the most intense jobs and that takes a very strong-willed person.

How has the experience been working alongside the cast and crew?

Absolutely amazing, everybody is so sweet and loving. We’ve really created a family space on our set.

Credit: Matthew Coleman

The Rookie is set to return with new episodes for the second season. What can you tease about what viewers can expect from the new episodes? What are you most eager for them to see?

We are currently airing the middle of season two right now on ABC and people have been loving it, which is such a blessing. They can continue to see more action, more romance, a lot of shocking moments, and tons of really awesome guest stars.

More specifically, what is in store for Jackson for the rest of this season?

Jackson finds love, but also still struggles a bit to really find his footing as a cop that will eventually not need a training officer.

What are your hopes for the series going forward and how would you like to see Jackson’s story evolve from here?

I would love to see Jackson with a regular partner and not under the wing of being trained by someone. Or seeing him in a space to where he is now training a rookie.

I personally remember meeting you back in the day during the Glee 3D movie tour. Viewers may remember you as David, a member of the Warblers, where you got to showcase your many musical talents in addition to acting. Can you talk a little about the music you are currently working on?

Yes! And thank you for being so kind, loving, and supportive back in the day! I’m releasing music under the name “Butterfly Ali”. I’ve released two singles at this point “Rose” & “Righteous”. With a new video for both on VEVO/YouTube. I look forward to many more. You can hear my music on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and any platform that has music share.

What do you enjoy most about creating and performing? Would you like to pursue or incorporate more music into your acting roles in the future?

It’s rather therapeutic to me, having an avenue to release my feelings and encourage people through music and entertainment. I actually enjoy separating the two. I love music because I’m able to create my own narrative and speak from “fully Titus.” With acting I enjoy being able to tell someone else’s story and walk in the shoes of a person that I would never be able to get in the mindset of, if it weren’t for acting.

Thank you so much to Titus Makin for taking the time to answer some questions for us!